Jets’ Rick Bowness Out After Minor Medical Procedure
The Winnipeg Jets announced on Tuesday that head coach Rick Bowness will be out for a brief period of time due to a minor medical procedure. In his absence, associate coach Scott Arniel will take over as the interim head coach. The team expects Bowness to rejoin them by the weekend.
Bowness, who has a record of 89-52-8 with the Jets over the past two seasons, will be missed by the team. Last season, the Jets were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Vegas Golden Knights in five games. Bowness has an extensive coaching career, having worked with teams such as the Boston Bruins, Ottawa Senators, New York Islanders, Phoenix Coyotes, and the Dallas Stars over five decades.
Arniel, who was hired as an associate coach with a significant role in coaching decisions, has been preparing for this opportunity. With over 20 years of experience coaching in the NHL, there were even rumors that Arniel was brought in as a potential head coach for the future. He has already proven himself this season with a 9-2-2 record as head coach during Winnipeg’s strong start in the fall.
However, the stakes are higher now. Arniel will need to guide the team through a tough stretch of games, starting with a match against the New York Rangers. The Jets have been inconsistent in recent weeks, mixing poor performances with strong ones. Arniel’s task is not only to prove himself but also to prepare a team that is considered a Stanley Cup contender to perform at their best every night. This stretch run will require a higher level of play and intensity compared to earlier in the season.
Arniel has the respect of his players and has shown his ability to lead the team to success in Bowness’ absence. During the eight games Bowness missed due to COVID-19 at the beginning of the 2022-23 season, Arniel had a record of 5-2-1. However, this new challenge will test his capabilities as the interim head coach.
The Winnipeg Jets will need to rely on Arniel’s leadership and coaching expertise as they navigate through this crucial period. The team’s success during this stretch will determine their position in the playoffs and their chances of pursuing the Stanley Cup. All eyes will be on Arniel as he steps behind the bench in New York, ready to guide the Jets to victory.